Fibromyalgia

What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by widespread muscle and joint pain and fatigue. Although the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, experts believe genetics, physical trauma, stress, and prior infections play a role in triggering symptoms of the condition. 

What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?

The symptoms of fibromyalgia look different for each patient. Some cases begin after physical trauma, surgery, infection or psychological stress. Symptoms can also occur gradually and worsen over time. The symptoms of fibromyalgia include:

• Muscle pain
• Tenderness
• Fatigue
• Brain fog
• Insomnia
• Headaches
• Sensitivity to heat and cold
• Numbness
• Tingling in the face, arms, hands, legs, or feet

Fibromyalgia causes you to feel pain all over your body. The symptoms are often mistaken for conditions like osteoarthritis and tendonitis. Because fibromyalgia resembles other chronic pain conditions, you need an in-depth evaluation to provide an accurate diagnosis.

How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

There is no test that can directly confirm fibromyalgia. Instead, your doctor must evaluate your overall condition to rule out other possible contributors to your pain. Once all other conditions have been ruled out, your doctor checks different areas of your body to determine how widespread your symptoms are. 

A diagnosis of fibromyalgia typically occurs if you experience widespread pain lasting longer than three months with no underlying medical condition. Your evaluation may include:

• Blood work
• Physical exam
• Discussion of your family and medical history

Once diagnosed, your doctor then develops a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of your symptoms.

How is fibromyalgia treated?

There is no cure for fibromyalgia. However, you can reduce and manage symptoms with consistent treatment. Conventional fibromyalgia treatment requires medications like pain relievers, antidepressants, and muscle relaxers. At Healing Duo Integrative Family Medical Practice, the team works with you to develop an individualized naturopathic treatment plan. 

This comprehensive plan is designed to address your specific symptoms and provide you with the tools to manage your condition without the use of prescription medications. Your fibromyalgia treatment plan may include one or more of the following.

• Acupuncture
• Diet plan
• Exercise plan
• Stress management
• Counseling

In many cases, fibromyalgia can be successfully addressed through regular exercise and lowering stress levels. Improving your overall health has a major impact on reducing symptoms of fibromyalgia.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of fibromyalgia, book an appointment at Healing Duo Integrative Family Medical Practice by phone or online today.